Rush resigns from post as CharlotteRising executive director

CharlotteRising executive director Dillon Rush submitted his resignation to the Charlotte Main Street organization’s board of directors Tuesday, Oct. 16. In an email to the board, Rush stated he has accepted a new position with Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), where he will serve as Tri-County Development & Placemaking Manager.

Rush’s last day as CharlotteRising executive director is Oct. 26.

“I must admit that my head and my heart clashed together strongly during this decision process, as I have cherished and appreciated working with all of you in building something truly remarkable here in Charlotte,” Rush stated in his email.

CharlotteRising Vice President Dan Olsen said Rush’s leadership was key in getting the Main Street organization off to a strong start.

“Dillon’s tireless efforts to strengthen and regrow a vibrant downtown Charlotte have been instrumental in the success of CharlotteRising,” Olsen stated. “While we wish Dillon the best in his new role, we know that the strength and leadership created in our organization and downtown will continue to transform our community for the better, even in his absence.”

Olsen said the search process for Rush’s successor is already underway.

“We will continue to build on our forward-moving progress to ensure the momentum continues for downtown and the region,” Olsen said. “And, we will lean on our state partners at Michigan Main Street to help us find the most qualified candidate to keep Charlotte rising.”

Michigan Main Street Manager Laura Krizov, who has worked closely with CharlotteRising since its acceptance into the Main Street program, said she is confident CharlotteRising will continue to move forward.

“The success of a Main Street program is in its leadership abilities and CharlotteRising has that down,” Krizov said. “We are confident in the program and foundation Dillon has created for Michigan Main Street in Charlotte and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the community to select a top candidate and continue building on the strong foundation CharlotteRising has created.”